Skin Cancer Awareness Month highlights sun’s danger

The dangers of the sun’s rays take center stage in May for Skin Cancer Awareness Month.

Doctors tell more than 1 million Americans each year they have skin cancer, by far the most common of all cancers. One in five people is expected to develop some kind of skin cancer in his or her lifetime.

Most cases are a direct result of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, according to the American Cancer Society. Both the common basal and squamous cell skin cancers tend to be found on sun-exposed areas, and incidence is tied to lifetime sun exposure. Melanoma, more deadly but less prevalent, also is tied to sun exposure.

ASDS member dermatologists – experts in the health, beauty and function of skin – recommend a three-fold preventive approach of protection, early recognition and diagnosis, and screenings.

Protection and prevention tips include:

Reduce sun exposure. Minimize time in the sun, especially when the sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Apply sunscreen. Apply a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 and a broad-spectrum lip balm a half hour before exposure to the sun. Reapply both regularly when outside.

Wear appropriate clothing. A white T-shirt only provides the protection of an SPF 4 sunscreen, so darker colors or tightly woven fabrics – such as silk and polyester – are safer options. A wide-brim hat can reduce exposure of the scalp, forehead, neck, ears and eyes by 70 percent.

Avoid sunburns. An individual’s risk of developing skin cancer doubles with five or more sunburns in a lifetime.

Avoid tanning beds. People who use them at least once a month increase their risk of skin cancer by 55 percent, according to studies, and the numbers are more ominous for people who begin such tanning regimens in their teens or 20s.

Examine skin regularly. Look especially for any new black-colored moles or changes in the size, shape, outline, color or feel of existing moles.

Know risk factors. People at higher risk include those with fair skin and blond or red hair, have a family history of skin cancer or of blistering sunburns, spend or spent a lot of time outdoors, undergo indoor tanning or have many moles.

Seek medical help. People who discover suspicious lesions or are concerned about a mole or lesion should consult a dermatologist.

ASDS is the largest specialty organization exclusively representing dermatologic surgeons who have unique training and experience to treat the health, function and beauty of the skin. ASDS members are pioneers in the field. Many are involved in the clinical studies that bring popular treatments to revitalize skin and diminish wrinkles to the forefront. Their work has helped create and enhance many of the devices that remove blemishes, hair and fat, and tighten skin. Dermatologic surgeons are also experts in skin cancer prevention, detection and treatment. Visit ASDS at: http://www.asds.net

2 Responses to “Skin Cancer Awareness Month highlights sun’s danger”

Unfortunately, it would seem that most people are more than willing to overlook certain aspects of their skin, and certainly aren’t examining their skin for potential signs of skin cancer. I also appreciate that you referenced the usage of tanning beds here. Studies have produced compelling evidence of just how harmful these can be, but it’s still something that a lot of people aren’t aware of, or they’re choosing to ignore these warnings over short-term aesthetic appeal.

The ASDS is recognized as the premier specialty group representing dermatologists performing all procedures – cosmetic, general, reconstructive and Mohs. ASDS members are experts in treating skin and soft tissue with surgical and non-surgical methods.